Effects of Problem-Based Learning Curriculum for Computer Science Education in an Elementary School

• In Event: Teaching Practices to Support Computational Thinking and Computer Science

Abstract

This study introduces a student-centered computer science(CS) curriculum utilizing, Scratch. The curriculum consisted of mastering programming concepts (Scratch lessons) and applying the concepts to develop programs guided by problem-based learning activities (PBL). This study aims to examine the influences of the PBL curriculum in learners’ understanding of CS principles and their interest in the discipline. A total of 31 sixth grade students participated in the study. Tests on computational thinking concepts and debugging skills revealed that both Scratch lessons and PBL learning activities enhanced the mastery of CT. Specifically, Scratch lessons were beneficial to understand CT concepts but not for debugging skills. PBL learning activities were helpful to improve debugging skills. Quality of their final projects and attitudes were examined.

Authors

• Kyungbin Kwon, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Anne Leftwich, Indiana University

• Thomas Brush, Indiana University

• Minji Jeon, Indiana University - Bloomington